MATH 80B Nature of Mathematics

A survey course, aimed at non-science students, providing an understanding of some fundamental concepts of higher mathematics. Is mathematics a natural science? Do mathematicians discover or invent? Discussion of such questions in connection with such topics as numbers (whole, prime, negative, irrational, round, imaginary, binary, transfinite, infinitesimal, etc.), logic, symmetry, various types of geometry, and some recent developments. Basic high school algebra and geometry is sufficient background. Students cannot receive credit for this course and course 80A.